Songbird Cams

Archive for the 'Dragonfly' Category

Gary:
This gorgeous dragonfly landed on the tip of the radio antenna of our Prius and I managed to be in the vicinity at just the right time to get this photo. Is this an example of conserving energy but not beauty?Bob Benson, Lafayette, California

Bob:
I say it’s more likely an example of conserving energy AND beauty! /Gary

Gary:
One of the most under appreciated critters, in my opinion, is the dragonfly. Nature’s natural defense of West Nile disease. The dragonfly’s hideous little larvae monsters remain in the water just like the mosquito larvae. Though when they evolve and break loose they are an air force taking down mosquitoes at all altitudes. Coming in many color phases they are very cool and should be appreciated. The butterfly gets more credit, but the dragonfly does the important work.Dave Harper, Oakley, California

Dave:
Dragonfly larvae are the scariest-looking little aquatic predators I’ve ever seen. They make fast work of mosquito larvae (and other aquatic insects), which that catch and eat with their powerful jaws. And as you say, once the dragonfly larvae metamorphose into adult dragonflies, they become living fighter planes that track down adult mosquitoes on the wing. /Gary